WeBuild secures $4.7 billion deal to build three dams for NEOM

WeBuild (formerly Salini Impregilo) has secured a substantial contract from NEOM, the developer of Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city, for the construction of three dams to create a 2.8-kilometer long freshwater lake at Trojena. This landmark project, confirming WeBuild’s position as a global leader in complex infrastructure, includes the development of ‘The Bow,’ an architectural marvel featuring a hotel suspended over the mountain’s valley. The project aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 for economic diversification and will host the 2029 Asian Winter Games.

The unique infrastructure project, set in the mountains of Saudi Arabia, is envisioned as a future location in the desert, featuring dams, a lake, and iconic architectural structures. The main dam, measuring 145 meters in height and 475 meters in length, will be constructed using roller-compacted concrete (RCC) and capable of holding around 2.7 million cubic meters. The second dam will also be in RCC, while the third will be in rock, with a volume of 4.3 million cubic meters.

The artificial lake will cover an area of 1.5 square kilometers and will include an island reserved for botanical activities. This architecturally-crafted lake is a central feature of Trojena’s LAVA-designed masterplan, aiming to sustain and regenerate the area’s natural environment, provide serene outdoor mountain living, and become a global hub for water sports and entertainment.

Pietro Salini, WeBuild CEO, expressed his delight at being awarded this significant project, emphasizing the team’s global experience and expertise to deliver the infrastructure marvel. The project also involves the creation of ‘The Bow,’ an architectural structure extending over the lake, featuring a luxury hotel, residential area, and a large central atrium with accommodation and hospitality facilities.

Over 10,000 people, including direct and third-party personnel, are expected to be involved in the construction. Philip Gullett, Executive Director – Region Head at Trojena, highlighted the sustainable approach to construction, reusing excavated rock for the lakebed lining and dam construction. This approach aligns with the broader commitment to environmental responsibility in the project’s development.

WeBuild is already contributing to NEOM’s ambitious projects, including the construction of a 57-kilometer high-speed railway line between ‘Oxagon’ and ‘The Line.’ In addition, their operations in Saudi Arabia encompass Line 3 of the underground in Riyadh, the Diriyah Square – Package 2 Super-Basement Works, and the construction and long-term management of the water treatment plant at the Zuluf onshore oil complex through its subsidiary Fisia Italimpianti.

WeBuild’s longstanding presence in Saudi Arabia dates back to the 1960s, and the company has played a crucial role in various significant projects, such as the Kingdom Centre in Riyadh and the Shuaibah-3 desalination plant in Jeddah. The latest contract for the Trojena project solidifies WeBuild’s commitment to contributing to the Kingdom’s vision for economic diversification and sustainable development.